EVALUATION OF GENERAL AVIATION TRANSPONDERS

Operational performance tests were conducted with General Aviation Transponders (GAT), developed under Federal Aviation Agency contracts. Four each of the prototype transponders were furnished and installed by FAA for operation in various aircraft. Questionnaires completed by the pilots of these aircraft provided data for estimating the performance and utility of the GAT along with benefits which might be derived from widespread implementation. It was concluded that while both types of General Aviation Transponders met the contract specifications, design changes are required to correct performance deterioration during operational use. It was also concluded that acceptance and utilization of the GAT by the General Aviation Community depend upon the extent to which its purchase price can be reduced and the equipment operational life increased. It was recommended that the FAA continue to foster introduction of transponders to general aviation by familiarizing the General Aviation Community with the ATCRBS, by investigation of design changes which will improve the GAT.